**EU Pledges to Help Moldova Counter Hybrid Threats**
In a show of solidarity with one of Europe’s poorest countries, the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has promised to help Moldova defend itself against hybrid threats from “agents of autocracy.” This pledge comes as Moldova prepares for high-stakes parliamentary elections on September 28.
The visit by von der Leyen marks a significant moment in support for Moldova, which has been facing growing fears of destabilization ahead of the vote. The pro-European government of President Maia Sandu is under pressure from the pro-Russian Socialist Party, and there are concerns that Russia may try to stir unrest and derail the country’s EU aspirations.
**Russia’s Influence**
Moldova has accused Russia of using its military presence in the Russian-occupied Transnistria region to undermine the country’s stability. President Sandu has warned that Moscow could provoke a crisis in Transnistria to influence the election outcome. The unrecognized region has faced mounting energy shortages since January, when Russian energy giant Gazprom halted deliveries.
The visit by von der Leyen comes as Moldova was granted EU candidate status in 2022. Sandu’s ruling Party of Action and Solidarity aims to maintain its parliamentary majority and move the country closer to full membership by 2030. However, Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean has warned that Russia plans to send 10,000 troops to Transnistria and establish a pro-Kremlin government in Moldova.
**A Threat to European Democracy**
Von der Leyen’s comments suggest that the EU sees Moldova as a test case for its ability to defend democracy against hybrid threats. She said, “These are the same agents of autocracy trying to undermine our democracies everywhere in Europe.” The EU is committed to protecting Moldova against hybrid attacks and energy shocks.
The visit by von der Leyen is a strong signal that the EU stands with Moldova as it prepares for its parliamentary elections. However, it remains to be seen how effective this support will be in countering the threats posed by Russia’s influence in the region.
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